Music Composition
The Master of Music in Music Composition at the University of Miami is a two-year, full-time graduate program that nurtures the creative potential of emerging composers. The curriculum blends traditional compositional techniques with contemporary approaches, giving students the tools to develop a distinct musical voice. Through private instruction, seminars, workshops, and ensemble collaborations, students gain in-depth knowledge of compositional theory, orchestration, notation, and music technology. The program encourages students to explore various genres, including chamber, orchestral, choral, electronic, and experimental music, ensuring that each composer is equipped to work in both academic and professional settings.
Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities, including recording studios and performance halls, and have numerous opportunities to showcase their work through concerts, readings, and collaborations with performers and conductors. Faculty members, who are active composers and scholars, provide individualized mentorship and guide students through creative exploration and academic development. The university’s vibrant musical community offers a stimulating environment where innovation is encouraged and artistic boundaries are challenged. Graduates leave the program with a well-developed portfolio, technical mastery, and a broadened musical perspective, ready to contribute to the evolving landscape of contemporary music.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Music Composition
- Degree Type: Master of Music
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 December 2025
- Location: University of Miami, United States
- Field of Study: Music Composition
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Composition and Technique
• Private Composition Lessons
• Contemporary Music Literature
• Counterpoint and Analysis
• Ensemble Collaboration Workshop
Semester 2 – Explorations in Style and Form
• Advanced Orchestration
• Electronic Music Techniques
• Conducting for Composers
• Performance Seminar
Semester 3 – Creative Expansion and Applied Practice
• Seminar in Composition Aesthetics
• Music Technology and Studio Production
• Experimental Forms and Improvisation
• Directed Composition Project
Semester 4 – Final Portfolio and Thesis Presentation
• Master's Composition Thesis
• Public Performance of Original Works
• Score Preparation and Editing
• Graduate Forum and Colloquium
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue diverse and fulfilling careers as professional composers, arrangers, orchestrators, and educators in both academic and commercial music environments. Many contribute original works to concert halls, film and television, video games, and multimedia installations, leveraging their ability to craft compelling, innovative music across platforms. Others take on roles in publishing, arts administration, or music technology. The comprehensive training equips them to write for ensembles of all sizes, manage recording sessions, and collaborate with directors and producers in interdisciplinary projects. With a solid foundation in composition, graduates are also well-prepared to continue into doctoral programs or teaching positions in conservatories and universities, shaping the next generation of musicians while advancing their own creative output.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers an immersive, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment where students can develop their compositional craft to a professional level. The University of Miami provides a unique combination of individualized mentorship, access to leading-edge music technology, and an active performance culture that supports new works. With frequent opportunities for students to hear their music performed and receive feedback from professionals, the program fosters real-world readiness. Students are encouraged to explore both academic and commercial pathways, enabling them to adapt to the dynamic nature of the music industry. If you're looking to grow as a composer in a supportive, innovative, and musically rich setting, this program delivers the expertise and experiences necessary to launch a meaningful career in music composition.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 305 284 2000
Email: admissions@miami.edu
Address: University of Miami, 1320 S Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
